M4 Closed in Both Directions as Motorway Warning Issued for Drivers
A section of the M4 motorway is set to be closed in both directions, causing significant disruption for drivers. The closure, which is not in Wales but just across the Prince of Wales bridge, will impact those travelling to Bristol Airport or London. Commencing at 8.45pm on Friday, the closure will last until 6am on Monday between junctions 18 and 19. Contractors need to excavate a trench beneath the motorway for the A432 Badminton Road Bridge project. This work is crucial for rerouting utilities from the bridge, scheduled for demolition next year.
National Highways’ route manager, Sean Walsh, advised travellers to avoid the M4 around Bristol if possible. For those who must travel through the area, allow extra time for the journey via signed diversion routes and expect delays. The closure is anticipated to cause significant traffic congestion, with warnings of substantial disruption from National Highways. Bristol Airport has also urged passengers to allocate extra time for their journeys. National Highways stated, “This is one of the busiest sections of motorway in the south west, and the closure is likely to cause substantial disruption. We carefully plan our schemes to limit inconvenience, but sometimes closures are necessary to conduct essential work.”
A local diversion will be in place, but heavy congestion is expected. The Badminton Road bridge, built in 1966, was closed to traffic following a structural investigation in July 2023, revealing rapid deterioration and cracking on the structure. The decision to demolish and rebuild the bridge was made as the quickest and most cost-effective solution. The work is projected to be completed by spring 2026. In case the weekend’s work faces challenges, the M4 junction 18 to 19 will face another closure from 7pm Friday 25 October to 6am Monday 28 October.
As the M4 closure looms, motorists are advised to plan alternative routes and adjust travel schedules to navigate the anticipated disruptions.
By Cathy Owen, Breaking News Editor